The Golf for the Disabled (G4D) Tour has announced its eight-tournament schedule for 2023/24, featuring a revamped format that introduces both Gross and Net tournaments for the first time.
The schedule runs from November 30 to 16 November 2024.
This change aims to broaden the inclusivity of the sport by incorporating both Gross and Net World Rankings for Golfers with a Disability (WR4GD), allowing competitors with various disabilities to vie for top honors.
Under the new format, the leading eight male and two female players from each ranking will receive invitations to compete, ensuring the representation of female golfers with disabilities at every event.
The tournaments, spanning five different countries, will mark the tour’s first visit to Africa with the Magical Kenya Open.
Speaking about the changes to the schedule and format, Tony Bennett, President of EDGA emphasized that G4D prioritises achieving one’s potential over low scores, acknowledging the diverse blend of physical, sensory, cognitive, and emotional skills required in elite performance.
Bennett stated, “With this adjusted trajectory for the G4D Tour, we aim to showcase that golf is a game for everyone, and the player pathway is available to all.”
Eligibility criteria for Gross players include a World Handicap System (WHS) or equivalent handicap of 3.4 or less for men and 7.4 or less for women.
Net players must have a WHS or equivalent handicap of 14.4 or less for men and 18.4 or less for women.
”With this adjusted trajectory for the G4D Tour, we aim to showcase that golf is a game for everyone and whatever challenges must be faced, the player pathway is available to all,” he added.
Since 2022, the number of golfers with disabilities in the World Rankings has increased by 32%, with representation from 46 countries, up from 33 the previous year.
G4D player Erika Malmberg, from Sweden, expressed enthusiasm about the expanded opportunities, stating, “The opening up of the G4D Tour events is a huge motivation for both the Net and female players. Suddenly playing in these events is a much more realistic goal to aim for. It’s a really big step for all of G4D.”